Associate Mechanical Engineer

Associate Mechanical Engineer.

Plymouth or Exeter.

About us

Hoare Lea is a human-centric and planet-conscious engineering consultancy. We offer intelligent and sustainable solutions to complex design challenges for the built environment throughout the UK and further afield.

We provide a wide range of engineering and consultancy services, including acoustics, air quality, building services (MEP), fire, lighting, security and sustainability to name but a few. Together, our highly skilled teams use technical expertise and problem-solving skills to bring buildings to life. We ensure that whatever the building, its design is outstanding, and its operations meet the needs of the communities it serves.

We are as committed to providing an environment where everyone can realise their unique potential. So, in joining Hoare Lea, you will experience a business that enriches your knowledge, supports your wellbeing, and welcomes your individuality. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in our 9-day fortnight scheme, thriving community groups, varied social and networking events, and extensive professional and technical development schemes. We also offer an extensive benefits package, including private medical cover, electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, and up to 30 days of annual leave.

Whatever your ambitions or circumstances, our aim is to enable everyone to develop their knowledge, give their best, and enjoy what they do.

About the role

We have a brand-new opportunity for an Associate Mechanical Engineer to join our team based in our Plymouth or Exeter offices.

We have a well-established reputation for delivering outstanding design on built environment projects throughout the Southwest and further afield. Working alongside a range of specialist engineers and consultants, you will join a collaborative, knowledgeable, highly engaged team who love what they do and offer a supportive, flexible, and high-performing work culture.

We have maintained an office in Plymouth since 1951, developing a strong regional reputation for award-winning projects.

Our Exeter office opened in January 2022 at Broadwalk House in prestigious Southernhay West. We have brought a global network of excellence to the city by drawing on the expertise of our 1,000+ talented engineers, commissioning agents, and energy analysts.

As an Associate Mechanical Engineer, you will be leading large-scale, complex projects, including managing stakeholders’ expectations, monitoring and reporting metrics, motivating others to work at their best, working out the most productive use of their time and the most effective use of your own.

In this key and varied role, you can expect to:

• Be in a client-facing role, attending project meetings and disseminating the brief within the project team. You will need to be of personable nature and a good communicator.
• Lead the development of initial strategic concepts for projects ensuring solutions are appropriate for the brief and regulatory standards.
• Take responsibility for solid technical delivery in your work either alone or as part of a team.
• Engage with junior support staff in their day-to-day activities and offer advice and guidance to ensure that they develop their skills and we get the best out of our people.
• Work as part of the Firm-wide Group, to gain experience and understanding from others, and to support and disseminate knowledge to others in the Firm.
• Be financially astute and work with the team leader to help monitor fee expenditure, resources and work delivered.
• Look at new ways of working and taking time out for innovation and research ensuring we keep abreast of our competitors.
• Create and maintain a high reputation within the industry and ensure adherence to QM and risk control procedures.

About you

To be successful in this role you’ll need:

• Proven experience working as a Mechanical Engineer or closely related role, with a track record delivering on a variety of complex projects.
• Understanding of all mechanical services including heating, ventilation and air conditioning.
• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary environment, with excellent communication skills with both internal and external clients, and a team-based work approach.
• Use of relevant software/tools such as Revit and AutoCAD.
• Self-awareness, an open mind, and a spirit of generosity.
• Conversant with relevant British Standards.
• Consultancy experience.
• Previous consultancy experience, you will appreciate the importance of complementary specialisms such as acoustics, fire engineering and computer modelling in the design of buildings and be adept at analysing and interpreting their impact on your work.

How to apply

To apply simply complete a CV profile and submit your application, or for further information please contact

If shortlisted, one of our recruitment team will be in touch to arrange a introductory call (about 30 minutes) to discuss the role and your experience in more detail. From there, successful candidates will be invited to attend a panel interview, either via Microsoft Teams or in person at one of our offices.

Adjustments and accommodations

If there are adjustments or accommodations that we can put in place to help you participate and give your best at any stage of the recruitment process (whether relating to disability, neurodivergence or anything else) please let us know.

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Recruitment agencies

We have a Preferred Supplier List of trusted partners who assist us when required. We do not acknowledge speculative CVs or unsolicited candidate introductions from agencies not on the list.